Izien Ovbiagele is a Nigerian and Filipino Toronto-based interdisciplinary artist, photographer, poet, and contributing writer. Drawing inspiration from culture, nature, and vibrant palettes, her work explores themes of urban resilience, joy, and cultural pride through visual storytelling and prose-poetry. Her creative roots trace back to her upbringing in Houston, Texas.
She has received recognition from UforChange’s film program (MVP Award, 2017) and completed the Arts Educator Apprenticeship with Voice of Purpose x Toronto District School Board. Her poetry has been featured in Lost In Translation (Artscape Youngplace), Ain’t I A Woman – I Am A Man (Design Exchange), Emancipation Arts’ Free Up (The Theatre Centre), Easy Period, Regent Park Newsletter, and Lakeshore Arts. In 2021, she joined Tarragon Theatre’s Young Playwright’s Unit Extended Cohort, bringing a compelling voice to contemporary storytelling. Izien is a proud alumna of Toronto Metropolitan University, holding an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Language and Intercultural Relations, and a certificate in Business Communication from The Chang School at TMU.
After a meaningful creative pause, she is passionate about exploring the intersections between technology, creativity, and community impact. While expanding her skills in this new field, she remains committed to volunteering with organizations focused on mental health advocacy and community building. Her multidisciplinary background and passion for lifelong learning continue to shape a purpose-driven, evolving practice.